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There is no specific formula for acting: Vijay Sethupathi at 54th IFFI, Goa

22 November 2023, IFFI Premises: During an interesting 'In-Conversation' event at the 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Kala Academy, Goa, veteran actress Kushboo Sundar and acclaimed actor Vijay Sethupathi gave insights into their experiences and comments on their cinematic journey.


Swati Bhat

In-Conversation session with Vijay Sethupathi and Kushboo Sundar


Vijay Sethupathi is a versatile actor in the Indian film industry. He has appeared in almost 50 films. Seenu Ramasamy's Thenmerku Paruvakatru, which won three National honours, was his first starring role.

Vijay Sethupathi replied, "I know that I don't know" when asked about his acting journey. He revealed, as a multifaceted character in the Indian film business, that his preparation for parts includes learning from discussions and fights with great brains in the film fraternity.

When asked about his image in different roles, Sethupathi stated that moviegoers are drawn to the plot and characters rather than the star of the film. When asked about acting, he highlighted the need of giving the mind freedom and "going with the flow." He went on to say that "there is no formula for acting" and that one must thoroughly immerse themselves in the character.

Mr. Sethupathi stated that he wanted to depict the real-life problems experienced by transgender people in his portrayal of a transgender character in the film Super Deluxe, which got him the National Award.

During his interactions with the attendees, he emphasised the need of keeping the spirit of learning alive in order to remain grounded.

Mr. Sethupathi acknowledged his aim to avoid being restricted to specific roles when asked about his choice of villain parts. He emphasised the significance of having the freedom to play different parts dependent on the script.







Madhur Bhandarkar a National Award-winning Film Director hosts an exciting 'In Conversation' session

22 NOvember, 2023, IIFI Premises: At the 54th IFFI, National Award-winning Film Director Madhur Bhandarkar presents an enthralling 'In Conversation' session.


Pritish Bagdi

Madhur Bhandarkar, a National Award-winning Indian director, playwright, and producer, gave an entertaining 'In Conversation' Session today at the Kala Academy Goa as part of the 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). The critically renowned Director delivered deep cinematic debate into the art of cinema, the complexities of filmmaking, and the challenges and inspirations that define storytelling in a gripping talk with film critic and analyst Taran Adarsh.

Bhandarkar, known for his unique films, presented a plethora of astute thoughts, emphasising the essence of real storytelling and the complexities of cinematic creation.

An ardent emphasis on the confluence between realism and cinema was at the centre of his discussion. "A film is born of an idea," Bhandarkar explained. Realistic cinema is an important part of the cinematic landscape. Realistic films have the ability to deeply resonate with people while balancing the dichotomy of being both artistically and economically significant."

Bhandarkar regarded research as the cornerstone of his profession, emphasising its critical significance in filmmaking. "Research is the USP of filmmaking," he asserted. It is the basis that enhances storytelling by adding depth and authenticity."

In response to the difficulties that filmmakers confront, particularly in terms of economics and creative freedom, Bhandarkar stated openly, "There is no box office success doctrine." Finances and content freedom present severe difficulties. Aspiring filmmakers, on the other hand, should persevere with conviction.'

Bhandarkar promoted the idea that failure is an essential part of the creative process by emphasising the organic nature of filmmaking. "Filmmaking is a natural process in which failure serves as a stepping stone to success." It's essential for creating high-quality material," he said.

Bhandarkar emphasised the importance of commitment and self-belief in his guidance to aspiring filmmakers. "Creative fulfilment in filmmaking necessitates unwavering conviction." It's not an easy road, but believing in the screenplay and oneself is essential," he advises.

The famed director also revealed his source of inspiration, stating, "I derive inspiration for my films from society." Understanding society's pulse feeds the stories I deliver to the screen."

Finally, Bhandarkar emphasised the importance of interesting screenplay in creating impactful cinema. "An engaging screenplay is the heartbeat of a good film," he stated emphatically, capturing the essence of cinematic greatness.





Malayalam movie at 54th IFFI, "Aattam" kicks off the Indian Panorama Feature Film Section

22 November 2023, IFFI Premises: The Malayalam film Aattam premiered yesterday in the Indian Panorama section of IFFI 54, which provides a fantastic cinematic experience for filmgoers. Anand Ekarshi's directorial debut, Attam, investigates the relationships between an individual and a community when placed in difficult situations.

While engaging with the media at the 54th International Film Festival of India in Goa, director Anand Ekarshi of the film Aattam stated that the "overarching theme of the film is not specific to any gender or patriarchy as such." It was envisioned in layers of dynamics between the individual and the group, with the group consisting of males and the person being a lady." He notes that the plot includes a gender study, but the image is not region or gender specific.

Ekarshi directs this 140-minute-long cinematic masterwork, directing a cast lead by the dynamic combo Vinay Forrt and Zarin Shihab. In terms of the film's plot, he says it depicts a growing dynamic between a person and a group. "It wasn't inspired by 12 Angry Men; rather, it was a natural progression, but it's an honour to be compared to the film," he remarked in response to a question. The film's concept was formed during the COVID pandemic time during a typical talk on a trip with friends, he replied when asked how the film was conceived.

Vinay Forrt, the film's principal actor, communiqué that he was on a trip with his 20-year theatrical pals when "we decided to represent our friendship, togetherness, and art in some way, and it was decided to do a film." It fell to Anand, who is the most "creative and well-read" of the bunch, according to Forrt. This concept was eventually realised in the film Aattam. He went on to say, "Attam is very personal, and it's a family project, close to my heart."

Forrt commended Anand for his directorial finesse as he “understood the strength and limitation of every individual actor and handled that very well and as a viewer, it translated into great performances.” On the question of what motivates him as an actor, Forrt remarked, "Exciting script, challenging character, and such other factors are important".

Talking of the movie, Zarin Shihab said that, “the response to the film has been fantastic.” She commends the director and adds, “it is great to see theatre artists coming together for the film and Anand has very smartly used theatrical devices and elements to elevate the storytelling for the screen.”  

On that topic, director Ekarshi stated that nine of the performers were making their feature film debuts and that "transitioning from theatre to cinema is a task, and acting for a shot is a challenge for stage actors." The most significant element was the 35 days of scene rehearsals before the shoot to get acquainted to the camera and the set."

Renganath Ravi, the film's sound designer, discussed the problems of shooting with 13 actors in the same area, but how the sound design made it intriguing, providing a subtle layer to the film.





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